Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) vs Maker's Mark Gold Label VIP

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)Maker's Mark Gold Label VIP
DistilleryPulteneyMaker's Mark
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandAmerica
TypeSingle MaltBourbon
ABV46%45%
Age26 yrNAS
Price£399£499
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness52/100
Beginner50/100
Value13/100

Maker's Mark Gold Label VIP

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner60/100
Value10/100

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Maker's Mark Gold Label VIP

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is better value at £399 vs £499.

For beginners: Maker's Mark Gold Label VIP is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£399 vs £499)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Maker's Mark Gold Label VIP

Pros

  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£499 vs £399)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Old?

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Who should buy Maker's?

Maker's Mark Gold Label VIP suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

HoneyToasted

Only Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

SmokeyCitricFresh Fruit

Only Maker's Mark Gold Label VIP

VanillaMalt ExtractNew Wood

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